Important HS Security Update - 9/23

Dear Connetquot Families,

As a follow up
to my communication this morning, I am writing with a brief update
regarding the rumors surrounding a social media posting alluding to
potential violence at Connetquot High School. Since that initial
posting, additional rumors have been circulating online and in the
community. As a parent myself, I understand how these types of rumors
can be troubling and create a sense of alarm. Therefore, I would like to
take the opportunity to clear up several misconceptions, provide a
brief update on the matter and explain our plan for moving forward.

Immediately after learning of the initial posting on Saturday evening,
the district contacted the Suffolk County Police Department and
officers began conducting a thorough investigation into the matter. At
this time, SCPD has deemed that there is no creditable threat to the
safety and security of our students or staff and are hoping to finalize
the investigation shortly.

Out of what I
can only stress is an abundance of caution, the district will be
expanding and enhancing our security protocols in the days to come.SCPD
officers, as well as a designated COPE officer, will be assigned to our
school building this week to support the proactive work of our School
Resource Officer and security team. The Police Department has said they
would support our efforts beyond this timeframe if necessary and upon
request. Furthermore, guests will notice an increase of security
protocol at our front gate and both students’ and visitors’ bags will be
subject to search upon arrival. Students are asked to leave any
unnecessary bags, anything from drawstring bags to backpacks, at home if
possible. Lastly, the district will deploy additional security guards
throughout the building, both before and after school hours.

I
must reinforce, that these efforts are being taken proactively and, in a
desire, to ease any uncertainties our students, staff and community
have as a result of most recent events. Please know that our district is
extremely proactive – not only in light of these events but always. The
safety and security of our students and staff is our top priority and
something that we remain vigilant in protecting.

One
of the rumors circulating social media is that there was an incident or
the threat of an incident at the football game on Friday evening. After
conducting an investigation into this matter, this rumor was deemed
false. However, it does serve as an important reminder to all. If you
see something, say something and, while it can be a remarkable asset,
social media is often the cause for the perpetuation of the rumor mill
and can inflict harm on a very broad scale.

I ask for
your help in creating a heightened sense of awareness for the
appropriate and proper use of social media and other communication
devices. Students need to understand that what is shared digitally –
whether it be via text, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat or any other
medium – is not private. Those thoughts, photos and comments that are
shared can be and are often seen, shared and interpreted by anyone,
anywhere and at any time. Before the start of school, the SCPD issued a
memo regarding this very matter. In the piece, which is posted on the
district’s website, notes that they hold a ZERO TOLERANCE policy with
regard to these types of school threats and will arrest and prosecute
those responsible in criminal court.

Together, it is
my hope that we can instill this important message in today’s youth, as
we remind them – implore them – to think twice and think critically
about the messages they send and the content they share.

If
you have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact
the main office at 631-244-2228. I look forward to seeing all of our
students and staff tomorrow morning.